Berne, 27 June 2023 – H.E. Alain Berset, president of the Swiss Confederation, received the credentials of Philippine Ambassador Bernard Faustino La Madrid Dy at the Federal Palace in Berne.
H.E. Alain Berset (left) and H.E. Bernard Faustino La Madrid Dy (right)
In line with the prevailing protocol of the Swiss Confederation, the Philippine Ambassador and his entourage was escorted by the Deputy Chief of Protocol of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, accompanied by an usher in full dress, in an official car with police escort to the Federal Palace.
Upon arrival at the Federal Palace, the Philippine Ambassador was welcomed by the Chief of Protocol who conducted him to the Federal Council’s Salon d’honneur where the Philippine Head of Mission was introduced and presented his credentials and the Letter of Recall of his predecessor to the President of the Confederation.
President Alain Berset and Ambassador Dy had a tête-à-tête following the presentation of credentials on key issues of mutual concern.
The Republic of the Philippines and the Swiss Confederation celebrated the 65th anniversary of the official establishment of diplomatic relations in 2022, although the Philippines is one country in Asia with which Switzerland has longstanding relations, going back to the 1800s when Swiss traders ventured to its shores. In 1862, Switzerland established in Manila its first consulate in Asia.
The Philippine Ambassador was accompanied by the Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Ms. Josephine M. Reynante, and Protocol Officer Juancho Rillo.
